The best ranch campgrounds near Sussex Inlet, New South Wales

On the coast, roughly halfway between Canberra and Sydney, Sussex Inlet provides campers with easy access to big urban cities as well as the scenic outdoors. Discover a wealth of accommodations in town, like pet-friendly cabins, holiday parks with powered sites, and rustic campgrounds. Then adventure across the inlet to Booderee National Park for all of nature’s splendours. Or jet over to Jervis Bay National Park to watch whales from the shoreline and scuba dive into the depths of the ocean. Budderoo National Park is another must-see attraction where campers can explore rainforest trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. Since every season in Sussex Inlet offers something different, campers can take advantage of this area year-round.

98% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sussex Inlet

On the coast, roughly halfway between Canberra and Sydney, Sussex Inlet provides campers with easy access to big urban cities as well as the scenic outdoors. Discover a wealth of accommodations in town, like pet-friendly cabins, holiday parks with powered sites, and rustic campgrounds. Then adventure across the inlet to Booderee National Park for all of nature’s splendours. Or jet over to Jervis Bay National Park to watch whales from the shoreline and scuba dive into the depths of the ocean. Budderoo National Park is another must-see attraction where campers can explore rainforest trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. Since every season in Sussex Inlet offers something different, campers can take advantage of this area year-round.

98% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sussex Inlet

1. Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

94%

(317)

35km from Sussex Inlet · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

There are camp sites to suit your group of: 2, 4, 6 or up to 12 people (Book extra if required, your group will be allocated together) - Camp sites 11 -12 are for group bookings - 4-12 guests Misty Mountain Farm is a family run working beef cattle property and horse training facility situated at the base of picturesque Coolangatta Mountain. Camp grounds are well maintained grass paddocks surrounded by beautiful picturesque scenery. * Campfires are permitted when local restrictions are not in place. - Fire pits can be provided. - Firewood must be within the firepit. No long logs hanging outside of fire pit. - Firewood kindling for cooking is supplied. - Firewood for evening fires can be purchased upon arrival - 20kg bag @ $20. LOCAL THINGS TO DO: - Coolangatta Estate Winery cellar door wine tasting and restaurant is next door (First settlement on the south coast) - Local wineries: Mountain Ridge, Two Figs, Silos, Crooked River, Cambewarra. - Bangalay Dining is a multi award winning regional restaurant and recognised gourmet dining destination. Located at Shoalhaven Heads near the surf club. - Heads Hotel (offers courtesy bus from camp ground) - Heads Bowlo (offers courtesy bus from camp ground) - Berry (10 minutes) - Nowra (15 minutes) - Jervis Bay (45 minutes) - Boating and Fishing on Shoalhaven River - 7 mile beach at Shoalhaven Heads is dog friendly north of the surf club - Jamberoo Action Park (40 minutes) Shoalhaven Heads (5 minutes) offers: IGA, Bakery, Chemist, Bottle Shop, Butcher, Pizza Loco, Chinese Restaurant, Heads Hotel, Bowling Club, Dr's surgery's, Vet Clinic, Newsagency, Hair Dresser, Barber, Heads Takeaway, Dog friendly 7 Mile Beach, Shoalhaven River. *NOTE: You must provide your own portaloo and dispose of using a sewerage reticulation system or at a waste or resources management facility. Horse Riding - we are on FB - Misty Mountain Equestrian. - Lessons and Property Trail Rides - * Pricing per person: - $120 guided property ride (1 hour) - $120 individual lesson (1 hour) - $60 led pony rides for kids (30 mins) - Horse agistment: Camp with your horse - $25/night/horse - Lesson on own horse $80/hr - Qualified and accredited EA L1G Coach and Qualified Veterinary Nurse on site

2. Yadboro Flat

96%

(225)

39km from Sussex Inlet · 19 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is located in one of the most spectacular areas on the Clyde River, with fantastic river frontage. The land is uniquely located between Pigeon House, Byangee Walls, and The Castle and The Budawang Wilderness Area, so makes a fantastic basecamp for those wanting to explore this beautiful part of the Morton National Park. The property is ideal for those keen on paddling, fishing, walking, listening to the many bird species, or simply absorbing the beautiful energy of this natural retreat. Please be advised that it is approximately 45mins to an hour to the entrance of the access rd, from either Milton, the beginning of Wheelbarrow rd or Monkey Mountain rd. It is also roughly the same coming via Western Distributor from Kings Highway Once on these roads a vast part of your drive will be on dirt, and may be a little testing in wet weather, however you will discover some much natural beauty when you arrive at your destination Please also note that there is no reception in this area, the closest place for phone reception is at Pigeon House Mountain. In the event of any emergency the caretaker does have STARLINK to assist with contacting medical authorities or family.

3. The Wandy Donkey Camp

96%

(96)

11km from Sussex Inlet · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located 15-minute drive to the glorious beaches of Jervis Bay, 2.5 hrs south of Sydney and 2.5hrs east of Canberra The Wandy Donkey Camp offers 150 acre property for you to rest without the hustle and bustle of the south coast. Created for families wanting to explore the beauty of the South Coast. With a natural stream that traverses the property there is much for you to observe and enjoy. Watching the Cows and Sheep graze or admiring the Alpacas long necks. There is also donkeys you might get to interact with along with seasonal (spring) baby goats. You will be able to sit with nature by the little stream watching for the wombats, kangaroos and lizards as they do their thing. Only 15 minute drive to nearest beaches, you can enjoy some great cafes and restaurants around the local Shoalhaven area. Travel 30 minutes south to Bendalong and feed the stingrays. Head west up the mountain to beautiful Jerrawangla lookout and Tianjara Falls. Located in the heart of the Shoalhaven, The Wandy Donkey Camp is central to all your coastal experiences. Kate your host, has a wealth of local knowledge that will get you started on your South Coast adventure. This is a, you bring, you take, experience leaving no physical trace behind. But leaving with a great story to share with your loved ones. Talk to Kate to arrange a detailed, up-close interaction with the farm animals.

4. Nugget And Brumby's

79km from Sussex Inlet · 3 sites · Lodging

Under an hour from Canberra and three hours from Sydney, our Tiny Caravan is a gorgeous retreat—an absolute labour of love made mostly from reclaimed materials. Tucked away on 83 acres of box–gum grassy woodlands between Bungendore and Braidwood, it’s the perfect spot to unplug, write, wander the kangaroo trails, soak in an outdoor bath under the stars, or simply breathe a little deeper. If you’re keen for a simple, soulful escape, come stay here.

5. Clyde River Camp Grounds

98%

(358)

63km from Sussex Inlet · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Originally a historical farming property, Premium Dried Firewood for sale $15 per load, Approx 10 logs for a night Please note no timber sales over Christmas break. Clyde River Camp Grounds is council approved and offer the ultimate for caravans and camping on manicured pastures directly on the Clyde River. We also offer Caravan and RV sites, unpowered in Off peak times (May - August) For powered sites please book through: Clyde River Caravan and RV Resort. Please note campsites are non powered It is a 10 min drive from Nelligen town centre and a 20 min drive from Batemans Bay. If you need supplies you can also travel by boat into Batemans Bay and tie up to many of its wharfs for that different experience. The camping area is surrounded by walking tracks and over the Christmas period the renowned Clyde Berry Farm is open where you can pick your own fresh berries or relax on the grounds for a ice-cream. You will find Shallow Crossing is also just a 10 min drive up the River Road for an exhilarating swim in fresh mountain water. The traditional water side camp kitchen offers a BBQ and table to eat. Has power and lighting, fresh drinking water, toilet, hot and cold shower and plenty of cover. With a fire pit just outside for toasting of marshmallows this makes for the best camping spot in the region. Please be mindful this is a camping and caravaning experience, there is for your convenience a flushing toilet (bring own toilet paper). This site has its own concrete boat ramp making a heaven for all fisho's and skiers. The ramp is totally safe to launch any watercraft. With water onsite you can even flush motors at the end of the day. The property has Telstra coverage for added security.

6. Brooman, on the Clyde River

97%

(568)

51km from Sussex Inlet · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Imagine a mesmerizing camping destination nestled along the banks of the serene Clyde river. Towering trees provide a natural canopy overhead, dappling sunlight onto the lush forest floor. The tranquil sound of water gently flowing creates a soothing ambiance, perfect for relaxation. Picture yourself setting up camp near the riverbank, with the refreshing breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers. As the day fades into night, marvel at the starlit sky mirrored on the shimmering surface of the river. It's a breathtaking experience that seamlessly blends nature's beauty with the joy of outdoor living. Brooman rests approximately half way between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay on the fresh water section of the Clyde River. The property stretches south on both sides of the river from the Old Sawmill Town located at its northern end. Brooman is a working farm and encompasses lots of beautiful spaces, restored old buildings, two small mountains, fertile river flats, native forests, grasslands, deep water holes, tree covered rapid sections of river and sweeping views. Brooman is less than 30 minutes drive to some of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast. Shallow Crossing is 10 minutes to the south. North is Pigeon House car park, Yadboro and the base of The Castle. To the West there are hundreds of kilometres of Forestry and National Park roads through some of the most spectacular forested mountain country east of the Coastal Range. The Clyde River Berry Farm is just minutes down the road. Local fish and chips, great coffee and handmade bread is 25mins drive at Burrill Lake. Some of the best restaurants and bars on the coast are less than 40 minutes drive at Milton and Mollymook. If you are looking to relax and recharge in nature or explore amazing country, then Brooman is it.

7. Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%

(598)

11km from Sussex Inlet · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Situated on the beautiful Wandandian Creek with 15km creek frontage, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, Babbling Brook offers ten grassed areas with an easy 3km 4WD drive to campsites. 15 mins drive to Huskisson and Sussex Inlet. We do not accommodate large groups as our focus is peace, relaxation and family friendly. The property is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, native birds and reptiles. There are also a lot of wombats so stay on the track and look for burrows. There are many activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, swimming, bush walking, bird watching and 15kms of mountain bike trails. We are pet friendly, please remember to have your pets protected against ticks. You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please DO NOT dig toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up and leave a real mess!! Campfires permitted in designated areas. There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. No trail bikes. Do not damage trees, there is plenty of firewood on the ground. Don't forget your mozzie repellent. Please note we have a moderate cancellation policy thru Hipcamp.

8. Young Macdonald’s Farm

100%

(229)

38km from Sussex Inlet · 4 sites · Tents

Young Macdonald’s Farm is 100 acres in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. It’s a family farm that was historically dairy-based but is moving to regenerative agriculture. Your hosts are Mac and his parents, Gina and Shawn. The property is at the base of Brown’s Mountain, 15 mins from Nowra and the Shoalhaven River, 30 mins from beaches, 15 mins from Berry, and 20 mins from Kangaroo Valley. It boasts private and secluded spaces for camping, two creeks, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. We want to share the farm experience and encourage you to be a part of our adventure as we begin this new chapter of a six-generation family farm on traditional Wodi Wodi land.

9. MiltonFarmStay

94%

(18)

23km from Sussex Inlet · 53 sites · Tents, RVs

We offer a space for fully self contained campers to camp on our relaxed farm grounds. There is two camping options, the front paddock has 2 sites which are suitable for caravans and bigger setups and the stables camp has only one site which is great for campers. You must be fully self contained as we don’t offer any bathroom or laundry facilities. Please note the Farm is an adgistment property. Your campsite will be private from public however there will be people around the farm tending to their horses both morning and afternoon. We are dog friendly and so are our dogs but we ask that your dogs remain on lead and at your camp at all times for the safety of our horses and your dogs. Our dogs are very friendly and will visit you from time to time so if this won't suit your dog then camp may not be suitable. If your dog is new to horses or reactive please stay elsewhere! Current fire ban in place.

10. Garanvale Woolshed

100%

(17)

77km from Sussex Inlet · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled just 2.48kms from main street of historic township of Braidwood where you can park a large caravan and vehicle without the stress of tight areas. The property has a historic woolshed thats been converted into a function centre and a Short stroll to town where you will find boutique shops, cafes, pubs and information centre with things to do in the surrounding area.

11. Oakleigh Farm Stay

100%

(2)

63km from Sussex Inlet · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Oakleigh Farm Stay is situated in the beautiful Southern Highlands. Getting here is an adventure in itself! As you drive down a winding track through native bushland, it opens up into a hidden escape cocooned by nature. We have a variety of wildlife including wallabies, lyrebirds, kangaroo, deer, wombats, and echidna to name a few. Our little farm includes chicken, rabbit, sheep, an alpaca a horse and our dog. You can be introduced to the animals at feeding time. If you enjoy a challenge you can take hike down to our creek which is always changing with the weather. We are closely located to Exeter General Store, Dawning Day Winery and Farm Club if you're after a bite to eat. We are a 15 minute drive to the picturesque towns of Bundanoon and Moss Vale. Please be mindful to leave no trace at Oakleigh Farm Stay. Please note: there is no cellular service in the area. High clearance vehicle is necessary to access property.

12. Buenpaso - good step

100%

(12)

80km from Sussex Inlet · 3 sites · RVs

Private, quiet and secluded; Perry Lane is a no-through road used by only two other neighbours. "Buenpaso" is 118 acres of woodland and meadow. Stroll around and see Kangaroos, Wombats, Deer and a variety of native parrots. 29 klms away (25 mins) from the Bungonia National Park, 20 mins to Goulburn.

Camper favorites near Sussex Inlet

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

99%

(598)

11km from Sussex Inlet · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Situated on the beautiful Wandandian Creek with 15km creek frontage, 2.5 hours south of Sydney, Babbling Brook offers ten grassed areas with an easy 3km 4WD drive to campsites. 15 mins drive to Huskisson and Sussex Inlet. We do not accommodate large groups as our focus is peace, relaxation and family friendly. The property is home to an abundance of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, native birds and reptiles. There are also a lot of wombats so stay on the track and look for burrows. There are many activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, swimming, bush walking, bird watching and 15kms of mountain bike trails. We are pet friendly, please remember to have your pets protected against ticks. You will need to be self-contained with own camping toilet, shower and water. Please DO NOT dig toilet hole, even though you leave it covered, it doesn't take long for the foxes to dig it up and leave a real mess!! Campfires permitted in designated areas. There is mobile reception. No shooting, archery or hunting. No trail bikes. Do not damage trees, there is plenty of firewood on the ground. Don't forget your mozzie repellent. Please note we have a moderate cancellation policy thru Hipcamp.

Young Macdonald’s Farm

100%

(229)

38km from Sussex Inlet · 4 sites · Tents

Young Macdonald’s Farm is 100 acres in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast. It’s a family farm that was historically dairy-based but is moving to regenerative agriculture. Your hosts are Mac and his parents, Gina and Shawn. The property is at the base of Brown’s Mountain, 15 mins from Nowra and the Shoalhaven River, 30 mins from beaches, 15 mins from Berry, and 20 mins from Kangaroo Valley. It boasts private and secluded spaces for camping, two creeks, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. We want to share the farm experience and encourage you to be a part of our adventure as we begin this new chapter of a six-generation family farm on traditional Wodi Wodi land.

MiltonFarmStay

94%

(18)

23km from Sussex Inlet · 53 sites · Tents, RVs

We offer a space for fully self contained campers to camp on our relaxed farm grounds. There is two camping options, the front paddock has 2 sites which are suitable for caravans and bigger setups and the stables camp has only one site which is great for campers. You must be fully self contained as we don’t offer any bathroom or laundry facilities. Please note the Farm is an adgistment property. Your campsite will be private from public however there will be people around the farm tending to their horses both morning and afternoon. We are dog friendly and so are our dogs but we ask that your dogs remain on lead and at your camp at all times for the safety of our horses and your dogs. Our dogs are very friendly and will visit you from time to time so if this won't suit your dog then camp may not be suitable. If your dog is new to horses or reactive please stay elsewhere! Current fire ban in place.

Garanvale Woolshed

100%

(17)

77km from Sussex Inlet · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled just 2.48kms from main street of historic township of Braidwood where you can park a large caravan and vehicle without the stress of tight areas. The property has a historic woolshed thats been converted into a function centre and a Short stroll to town where you will find boutique shops, cafes, pubs and information centre with things to do in the surrounding area.

Oakleigh Farm Stay

100%

(2)

63km from Sussex Inlet · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Oakleigh Farm Stay is situated in the beautiful Southern Highlands. Getting here is an adventure in itself! As you drive down a winding track through native bushland, it opens up into a hidden escape cocooned by nature. We have a variety of wildlife including wallabies, lyrebirds, kangaroo, deer, wombats, and echidna to name a few. Our little farm includes chicken, rabbit, sheep, an alpaca a horse and our dog. You can be introduced to the animals at feeding time. If you enjoy a challenge you can take hike down to our creek which is always changing with the weather. We are closely located to Exeter General Store, Dawning Day Winery and Farm Club if you're after a bite to eat. We are a 15 minute drive to the picturesque towns of Bundanoon and Moss Vale. Please be mindful to leave no trace at Oakleigh Farm Stay. Please note: there is no cellular service in the area. High clearance vehicle is necessary to access property.

Buenpaso - good step

100%

(12)

80km from Sussex Inlet · 3 sites · RVs

Private, quiet and secluded; Perry Lane is a no-through road used by only two other neighbours. "Buenpaso" is 118 acres of woodland and meadow. Stroll around and see Kangaroos, Wombats, Deer and a variety of native parrots. 29 klms away (25 mins) from the Bungonia National Park, 20 mins to Goulburn.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Emma

1 week ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Wandy Donkey Camp

Kate has a lovely farm. We stayed nestled in trees in one of the pddocks on the flat. Nice and quiet. Our dogs were able to be off leash which was terrific as they are kelpies. Kate is very warm and welcoming. If we were heading back through Jervis Bay way we would stay here again.

S

Scott

2 weeks ago

3 m Class B

2 nights at Yadboro Flat

This Hipcamp is perfect for 4WD campers seeking a truly remote place to pitch a tent. Access to the site begins by visiting Julie the site manager just past the bridge on the left as you enter Yadboro Flats to be escorted through this beautiful private property to reach the secluded campsite. The Water Hole site is the highlight offering its clear refreshing water ideal for cooling off or relaxing by the bank. The campsite itself is small, peaceful, and well away from all other camping areas for complete privacy. Ideal for singles or couples wanting peace and tranquility, this spot is best suited to self-contained, experienced campers who bring only the essentials. A rare, untouched bush escape for those who love simplicity, solitude, and nature at its purest.

Warren

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

Just an amazing location. Non power or powered sites Toilet and shower if needed Boat ramp to swim and relax in extreme temp But overall a place we will come back to and spend a week

C

Chris

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Clyde River Camp Grounds

Our second time there with our group and we love it beautiful place with everything u need. The owners a wonderful which really makes the camp worth the trip. Thanks Ross

P

Peter

3 weeks ago

14 m pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

What an amazing property for campers! Peaceful, well maintained property, with welcomed powered sites by the river with really close access to the river via boat ramp. Ross and Lisa are exceptionally welcoming hosts and ultimately main contributors to the wonderful experience. The only regret we had was our stay of 3 nights was too short! Will definitely be taking the time to get back to Ross and Lisa’s great camping grounds.

C

Claire

3 weeks ago

14 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

Great location. Only a short drive to Seven Mile Beach, Shoalhaven Haven Heads, Gerroa, Gerringong and Kiama. A spacious paddock to pull up. Could feel busy if all sites were full, but we had only two others near us on night one, and the place to ourselves on night two. Great star gazing at night, and the fire pits were a nice touch.

S

Steve

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

Great spot right on the Clyde! Everything you could want in a riverside campground! Ross and Lisa have set this up well and are fabulous hosts!

A

Anne

November 2025

9 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Wandy Donkey Camp

Lovely people and a great camp site. Very private.

J

Jess

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Clyde River Camp Grounds

Beautiful site! Right on the river and so peaceful. We had some good chats with Ross. Very sad we were only there for a night and will definitely come back for a longer trip. Facilities were great. The road in is a little bumpy but we got in fine with our AWD and trailer. Highly recommend stay here.

G

Gareth

November 2025

5 m car

1 night at Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

Another brilliant night at the best camp spot in Oz! Nothing like waking up surrounded by cows and horses! Magic! Thanks guys ❤️🙏🏼

T

Tarnie

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Clyde River Camp Grounds

Absolutely love camping at Ross and Lisa’s property, clean tidy really nice grass area, perfect facilities, and perfect if your into your fishing, great boat ramp 100% recommend.

B

Bernard

November 2025

12 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Wandy Donkey Camp

Such a beautiful property with so much space and privacy surrounded by trees and animals. Kate is a wonderful host who is kind, caring and exceptionally welcoming. The property is in a great position to explore the surrounds of Huskisson, Jervis Bay, Milton, Ulladulla etc or to simply stay and relax at camp. No issues with access towing a 22ft caravan.

L

Lyn

November 2025

8 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

We loved the powered site right on the clyde river, great for fishing. The property is well cleared and very peaceful. The hosts Ross and Lisa are very friendly.

Levi watching the horses in next paddock

L

Linda

November 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Misty Mountain Farm - Farm Stay

Levi my pup and myself enjoyed an overnight stay with lovely views of mountain and vineyard. Plenty of room. Close to pet friendly Shoalhaven beach.

L

Laura

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

My friends and I (and our two dogs) had the best weekend camping at Clyde River at Ross and Lisa's property. The camping sites are very well kept, the areas nice and tidy, the space between campers is great too. Sites are flat so easy and suitable for setting up swags and tents. The toilet and shower facilities are very well clean and everything was provided. The location is perfect, we were able to get the boats in and out easily with the boat ramp on site. Highly recommend and we cant wait to come back!

c

camila sthefani de camargo

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook 4WD Camping

This was the best camping experience I’ve ever had. Michele and Bill were incredibly attentive hosts and made us feel truly welcome. The place is absolutely beautiful, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. I genuinely can’t wait to come back. Highly recommended!

P

Peta

November 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Clyde River Camp Grounds

Loved this beautiful spot right on the river. Will definitely be back.

K

Kevin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Clyde River Camp Grounds

The camp site was spacious, well grassed and very quiet Ross & Lisa were great hosts. Hope to return soon.

s

sarah

November 2025

5 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Clyde River Camp Grounds

Loved the water front spot, owners were lovely. Definitely would go again.

M

Mark

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Clyde River Camp Grounds

Excellent flat green pitches for tents. Lots of space for the pup to stretch his legs. Firewood available and delivered to your pitch by Ross for $15 - so no need to bring it. Very quiet. Would stop again and for longer.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Sussex Inlet guide

Where to go

Booderee National Park

Situated on Aboriginal land, Booderee National Park sits directly across the inlet. Hike to a beach-side campground that offers access to fresh water, toilets, and cold showers. Or get cosy in the caravan and enjoy a drive-in pitch with nearby hot showers and sheltered BBQ areas. After a good night’s rest, visit Cape St. George Lighthouse and wander along the numerous sandy beaches. With several activities to choose from, campers have their pick when it comes to whale watching, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, or snorkelling.

Jervis Bay National Park

Just under an hour from Sussex Inlet, Jervis Bay National Park offers world-class whale watching and sumptuous white-sand beaches. While there’s no camping inside the park, there is a variety of accommodations in the nearby village of Huskisson, from cabin rentals to holiday parks for tents and caravans. After setting up, check out Bull Hole Lookout, paddle Coonemia Creek, or saunter down the Hyams Beach Trail or Hare Point walking track.

Budderoo National Park

Head roughly two hours north to Budderoo National Park and get settled into a campground equipped with basic amenities like toilets and picnic tables, as well as easy access to Kangaroo River. Adventure over to Nellies Glen Picnic Area or conquer the Minnamurra Falls walk and Carrington Falls walking track—all of which reward hikers with outstanding waterfalls at the end of the journey. For more stunning views, head to Jamberoo Lookout—and don’t forget the camera!

When to go

The balmy summers of Sussex Inlet are perfect for visits to the beachy paradise of Jervis Bay National Park or aquatic adventures at Booderee National Park. As temperatures start to drop when autumn and winter roll around, wildlife watching opportunities quickly rise. Whales migrate just off the coast from May to November while rare birds head home for mating season in Budderoo National Park. The spring season brings gifts, too—swathes of colourful wildflowers come to life throughout the park’s grassy areas, making picture-perfect backgrounds and stunning hiking scenery.